In this story from Bessie Head, a span of ten political prisoners unites to survive the harsh South African penal system. The main character (Brille) is the oldest and weakest of the group, as reflected in his build, clumsiness, and poor eyesight. Brille compensates for these shortcomings with strength of character and insight. A beating from a new warder helps him see that he entered politics for the wrong reason, and leads to a psychological tug-of-war that he eventually wins, improving things for the whole span. His glasses symbolize both weakness and perceptiveness. Themes include apartheid, dignity, resolve, manipulation, cooperation.
